Clydesdales ramp up preparations against runners-up

THE Toowoomba Clydesdales will look to build on their win over Ipswich as they prepare to tackle Wynnum-Manly in their FOGS Cup Colts Challenge trial match tomorrow.

The Clydesdales put in a strong performance across the park against Ipswich last week, however, coach Scott Hart believes there is still improvement in the side.

"I was very pleased with our performance last week particularly in defence," Hart said.

"The game did get scrappy at times and we know there are areas we can improve in."

The side can expect a stern test this weekend against a Wynnum-Manly side that finished runners-up in last year's FOGS Cup Colts Challenge.

"Wynnum-Manly are a side that will test us, they're really top of the tree," Hart said.

"We are expecting this to be a tough hit out, but we want to test ourselves against the best."

A 22 man squad has been selected which will give players the opportunity to impress the coaching staff and nail down a regular team spot for round one.

The clash also marks the first home appearance for the Clydesdales this year and the side is looking to make their home ground a fortress once again this year.

"We are looking to make Gold Park a place where the other teams don't like to come," Hart said.

This will be the Clydesdales final trial match before their season opener against the Sunshine Coast away on March 16.